Thoughts on replacing torque convertor before trans dies

[No Tyme]

I have an 2018 Silverado, 5.3 which has the 6 speed trans. Purchased it used with 104K on the clock I had the trans flushed at a dealer and after driving it for a couple of months it seems to be OK, but I have given thought to just going ahead and replacing the torque convertor (most likely with an aftermarket one) just to be on the safe side.

Looking for one's thoughts if it is worth it, maybe some have done this and are willing to share their results.

[steelerdude15]

Personally, I wouldn’t replace it just because. I’d only replace it if it failed, but that’s just me.

[newdude]

With 100+K on the truck, I would consider it for sure.  If a 6L converter goes it can wipe out some expensive hardware like the pump and the pump halves, TECHM (TCM+valve assembly) and more.  

 

Before doing that however, what temps does it run at?  My first upgrade would really be the GM lower temp thermal bypass valve as that will extend the converter's survivability no matter if its the OEM or aftermarket one.  If empty driving you see like 185-195F, its got the stock TBV still.  The new one is supposed to be a 158F TBV but after being installed they seem to run 145-150F. 

 

I would also drop the pan and check the magnet to see how much debris is on it.   

Edited August 23, 2022 by newdude

[No Tyme]

1 hour ago, newdude said:

With 100+K on the truck, I would consider it for sure.  If a 6L converter goes it can wipe out some expensive hardware like the pump and the pump halves, TECHM (TCM+valve assembly) and more.  

 

Before doing that however, what temps does it run at?  My first upgrade would really be the GM lower temp thermal bypass valve as that will extend the converter's survivability no matter if its the OEM or aftermarket one.  If empty driving you see like 185-195F, its got the stock TBV still.  The new one is supposed to be a 158F TBV but after being installed they seem to run 145-150F. 

 

I would also drop the pan and check the magnet to see how much debris is on it.   

I was given a 90 day drivetrain warranty on the truck when I bought it. Had the trans flushed as soon as I got the truck. Did notice that I was a pint low on the fluid after the flush, but did the "pill flip" but because I live in Ohio I did purchase the upgraded by-pass valve. I will install it before cold weather sits in.

I am thinking of dropping the pan later this year as it may tell me what is going on inside the trans.

[KLRV6]

I would rebuild the trans before it fails. I have a 2015 5.3\6l80 with a CTSV converter I installed two years ago. The trans does ok, but just replacing the converter is not enough. There are valves (PR & TC), springs and the converter that must be replaced for long term reliability. I am gathering parts now and will go through the trans next spring. Total will be around $1500, but I will then control being without the truck rather than a parts combo that would more than likely fail while I'm traveling on the highway away from home.

[shakenfake]

I would probably think about refreshing it as well or at least putting in a new converter

[KARNUT]

Ifs there’s a known issue maybe. I’d be more concerned with the cylinder deactivation components. Maybe getting that changed out. Ultimately if I was concerned about all that I would have bought it at a Chevy dealer. And bought an extended warranty. 

[Grumpy Bear]

https://floridatorqueconverters.com/Torque-Converter-77-JMBXSD.html

 

I've posted this link a few times when this comes up along with the SONNAX link below 

 

https://www.sonnax.com/tech_resources/845-6l80-6l90-transmission-tech-advisory-consider-an-updated-converter-in-your-next-rebuild

 

@newdude has got this nailed nine ways to Sunday. Yea, there are other things you could do and would likely wish to IF you tow heavy and often or hot rod it but for Joe Average getting ahead of the converter issues, a thermostat delete or upgrade to the part he suggest and a quality fluid will head off a huge majority of issues. If that single apply clutch wears through, and it will, then everything he said WILL happen. 

 

Isn't his first picnic with these. 

[pokismoki]

have the dealer do a Trans relearn on it before you go crazy.

 

 from what i've seen , if you pull trans for a converter, get the 6l90 unit for stock stall, otherwise rebuild it now with new pump and upgrade PR valve and the latest tsb updates before it tears itself apart with metal everywhere

Edited August 24, 2022 by pokismoki

[It's Tim]

A 2018 with that mileage there is a very good chance it was "rode hard and put away wet", spend the money now. 

[KARNUT]

Actually a low year high mileage vehicle probably has been driven on the freeway. The easiest on a vehicle.